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In the “NICK” of Time

I’m embarrassed. In fact, I’m ashamed to a certain extent. Ever have a bad day? I think we all have at one point or another. It’s inevitable.

As I look back over the past month, I can remember a number of various incidents that contributed to having a bad day or two. For instance:

Couldn’t hail a cab during a rainstorm in New York City.

Spilled sauce on a brand new dress shirt.

Got a large splinter lodged in my index finger.

Missed my connection in Atlanta and had to take a later flight.

Spilled a container of honey in my kayak.

Watched one of my favorite football teams lose in the last 30 seconds.

Get my drift? Life can sometimes be downright cruel!

I’m sure most of you have heard the saying: “Change Your Thinking – Change Your Life!” That’s so very true. Others call that “Re-framing.” Still works.

Let me share an example as proof of my declaration.

I thought that any one of those incidents I mentioned earlier constituted a bad day.

Then, I had occasion to see a short, touching video that changed my thinking altogether.

Can you imagine being the parent of a child who was born with no arms and no legs? What kind of future would you think that child would have? Seriously, pause and give that horrid thought some consideration. Disheartening, isn’t it?

Now consider something which may be even worse. Consider the possibility that this child was YOU! What kind of future could you foresee for yourself? Pretty dismal, wouldn’t you say?

Well, this child actually did exist. His name is Nick Vujicic, and today he’s 27 years old. He was born in Melbourne, Australia, with the rare Tetra-amelia disorder: limbless, missing both arms at shoulder level, and legless but with two small feet, one of which has just two toes.

Nick’s life was filled with difficulties and hardships. He learned to write using the two toes on his left “foot” and a special device that slid onto his big toe to grip.

This remarkable young man was determined to overcome his disability and make a difference in today’s chaotic world. He did just that! For instance:

He learned to use a computer and type using the “heel and toe” method.

He learned to throw tennis balls and plays football and golf!

He answers the phone, shaves and brushes his teeth.

He learned how to swim and surf (yes, surf!)

Nick graduated from college at the age of 21 with a double major in Accounting and Financial Planning. He began his travels as a motivational speaker, focusing on the topics that today’s teenagers face. He has spoken to more than two million people so far in churches, schools and corporate meetings in 20 countries on four continents (Africa, Asia, Australia, and North America).

Today, Nick’s a preacher, a motivational speaker and the director of Life Without Limbs, an organization for the physically disabled. Who would have guessed 27 years ago that this beautiful limbless baby would one day be someone who would inspire and motivate people from all walks of life, touching lives all over the world?

I now look back on my list of burdens that could result in a “bad day,” and I hang my head in shame. I think about Nick, what’s he’s overcome, and what he’s accomplished against all odds and I start my day with renewed hope and faith that any one of us can accomplish just about anything we make up our mind to do.

Take a look at this short video and see Nick impacting young lives as no other could do. You’ll undoubtedly tear up but you’ll feel much better as a result. Have a good day!

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